How to Remove the Rear Hatch Lock & Lever on a 1996 Dodge Caravan

Chrysler Corporation introduced the Dodge Grand Caravan in 1987. The 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan was available in three different trim levels, with a choice of a 2.4-liter in-line four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V-6, a 3.3-liter V6 or a 3.8-liter V-6, depending upon the trim package. The rear hatch handle is usually removed when it is not functional or if the handle breaks loose. Replacement of the handle requires removal of trim inside the vehicle, as well as electronic components attached to the handle assembly.

Instructions

Removing the Rear Hatch Handle Assembly and Lock Cylinder

1

Lift the rear hatch of the minivan. Remove the mounting screws around the outer edges of the trim panel, using a Torx bit or a Phillips screwdriver. Remove the trim panel completely from the rear hatch. Remove the auto lock motor from inside the handle assembly by removing the mounting screws and pulling the motor free. Set the motor aside, out of the way of the handle assembly.

2

Remove the metal rod or rods from the handle assembly by pulling the plastic hold down clips free, then pushing the rods up and out of the handle assembly. The vehicle will only have two rods if it is equipped with a lock link rod. Otherwise, there will only be one rod. Remove the VTA or theft-deterrent switch from the inside end of the lock cylinder, if the van is equipped with anti-theft protection.

3

Remove the nut that holds the handle assembly in place, with a ratchet and socket. Pull the handle from the outside and twist the handle so that it disengages the retaining groove on the other end of the handle.

4

Remove the lock cylinder C-clip from the inner end of the cylinder. Remove the lock cylinder arm, then push the lock cylinder outward and through the handle to remove it. If you are replacing the lock cylinder along with the latch handle assembly, ignore this step completely and proceed to the installation instructions.

Rear Hatch Handle and Lock Cylinder Installation

5

Install the lock cylinder into the new latch handle assembly, from the outside inward. Install the lock cylinder arm onto the inner end of the cylinder, then snap the C-clip on the cylinder to lock everything in place.

6

Guide the end of the handle with the protrusion into the retainer groove of the hatch, then push the other end of the handle into place. Install the retaining nut onto the handle from the inside of the hatch frame. Tighten the handle nut to about 10 to 15 foot-pounds of pressure maximum, with a ratchet and socket. Do not over-tighten the handle nut, as you will break the new handle in doing so. Connect the VTA switch to the inside end of the lock cylinder by hand, if the vehicle has anti-theft protection.

7

Install the handle link to the handle assembly, and engage the plastic clip. Install the lock link if the van is equipped with one. Install the power lock motor onto the new handle assembly and snug the mounting screws in place with the appropriate driver.

8

Let the hatch lift freely, and step to the driver's door of the van. Test the power lock system to ensure the motor is engaging the handle assembly. Go back to the rear hatch and pull the handle to make sure it move freely. Look inside the handle to make sure all of the links are moving freely and are not caught up or hindered.

9

Install the door trim panel onto the rear hatch, and tighten all of the mounting screws until they are snug. No torque is needed on these screws, and adding torque can break the plastic panel.